Dozens of Lyme disease cases reported in the first half of the year. ANSP issues recommendations
During the first six months of 2025, the National Public Health Agency confirmed 53 cases of Lyme disease in the Republic of Moldova. The majority of these cases occurred in the Chisinau municipality, which reported 25 cases. Other affected areas included the Straseni, Ialoveni, and Orhei districts. Among the infected individuals, there were 10 children under the age of 17.
Compared to the same period last year, when 126 cases were reported, authorities noted a significant decrease in the number of tick-borne infections. The National Public Health Agency (ANSP) attributes this trend to increased awareness of the risks associated with ticks and the adoption of individual protective measures. These measures include wearing appropriate clothing, using repellents, and implementing diagnostic and reporting standards more consistently in healthcare.
Lyme disease is the most common illness transmitted by tick bites in the Republic of Moldova and other European countries. The first visible sign of Lyme disease is typically “erythema migrans,” a skin lesion that occurs in 60-80% of cases. This condition may be accompanied by symptoms such as fever, fatigue, muscle pain, headache, and others that warrant prompt medical consultation and laboratory testing.
Experts recommend thoroughly inspecting the body and clothing immediately after spending time outdoors, particularly in areas with tall grass or forests. If a tick is found, it should be removed quickly and correctly, without crushing or covering it with substances like oil or nail polish, to prevent infection.
